Suicide First Aid Training (BS 30480)
The BSIA has developed an in-person one-day training course designed to help employers understand the principals of BS 30480 and translate them into practical workplace action.
About BS 30480
BS 30480 is the world's first standard dedicated to suicide prevention, intervention and postvention in the workplace. It provides organisations with a practical framework for recognising and managing suicide risk, supporting individuals in crisis, and responding appropriately when a suicide impacts the workplace.
The standard is designed for organisations of all sizes and sectors, helping employers create a safer, more compassionate working environments where employee wellbeing is actively supported.
With an estimated 19 lives lost to suicide every day in the UK, and research suggesting around 10% of suicides may be work-related, BS 30480 recognises the important role workplaces can play in prevention and support. The standard encourages organisations to strengthen policies, improve awareness, reduce stigma, and equip staff and manage with the knowledge and confidence to signpost individuals towards appropriate help.
Course Details
This in-person, interactive course, which is hosted at BSIA HQ, provides delegates with an understanding of suicide awareness and prevention within the workplace, helping organisations create safer and supportive environments for their employees. Particpants will explore the responsibilities of employers, managers, colleagues, and peers in recognising potential signs of distress, responding appropriately to concerns, and fostering a culture where seeking support is encourage.
The course will cover key considerations for suicide prevention, intervention and postvention., and a Suicide Prevention First Aider certificate will be issued upon completion.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the course, participants will be able to:
- Understand the purpose and principles of BS 30480;
- Recognise the role workplaces can play in suicide prevention;
- Identify factors that may contribute to suicide risk in workplace settings;
- Respond appropriately when concerns are raised;
- Understand the importance of effective support following a suicide-related incident;
- Consider practical steps for embedding suicide awareness within organisational policies, procedures, and wellbeing strategies.
Fees
| BSIA Member | Non-Member | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Fee | £125 + VAT | £250 + VAT |
Why Suicide Prevention in Security is Important
Security personnel often work in environments that expose them to a combination of risk factors associated with poor mental wellbeing, including:
- Lone working
- Irregular working patterns and hours
- Exposure to traumatic or distressing events
- Workplace violence
- High levels of responsibility with limited control
- Social isolation
The security industry is built around protecting people, property, and places. Frontline professionals often encounter vulnerable individuals, making awareness and intervention skills particularly valuable.
In England, ONS recorded 20 deaths by suicide among security professionals and related operations in 2020, 27 in 2021, and 32 in 2022. Furthermore, 7,147 suicides were registered across the UK in 2024, the suicide rate in England and Wales was 11.4 deaths per 100,000 population, and approximately 75% of suicides are male. This a clear indication that suicide prevention and workplace support is essential and critical for the security industry.
BS 30480 offers a practical framework to recognise suicide risk and ensure appropriate support is available for employees that are affected by suicide. This is incredibly important in a sector where many people work alone and at tough hours, and will shape a more mentally healthy security industry.